P-Noy vows to curb smuggling
President Benigno S. Aquino III today assured the officers and members of the Chambers of Automotive Manufacturers of the Philippines (CAMPI) that his administration is vigorously working to curb smuggling as he vowed to rebuild this nation towards progress and development.
Speaking at the opening of the four-day Philippine International Motor Show (Aug. 19-22) organized by CAMPI at the World Trade Center, the Chief Executive told the country’s oldest automotive manufacturer that his administration is silently working to file a series of criminal cases against suspected smugglers.
He cited as example the cases that the Department of Finance and the Bureau of Customs had already filed before the Department of Justice against those who evaded appropriate duties of imported vehicles.
Aside from filing criminal cases against suspected smugglers, Aquino said he will also support efforts to enhance motor vehicle development.
“We want to help ensure your success because your industry’s success is a story of our people,” the President said.
Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) records show that 74,700 Filipinos are currently employed as vehicle assemblers, distributor parts and components manufacturers.
To date, the automotive industry is helping the Philippine economy gear up for change with its total investment amounting to P100 billion, some P20 billion payment in duties and taxes, and withholding taxes amounting to P325 million per year. The auto industry also registered a phenomenal 37.1% growth in their sales during the first 6 months of 2010.
Fueled by renewed optimism, President Aquino said, his administration is now shifting to higher gear towards progress and prosperity. “Our administration is eager to rebuild this nation with you. We are eager to show the world what the Filipino can do.”
This year’s Philippine International Motor Show showcases the latest green technologies in fuel-efficient automobiles such as hybrid cars and clean burning, diesel-powered vehicles. In addition to the exhibition of concept or prototype vehicles and the latest advancements in automotive technology, the exhibit also provides consumers with wider vehicle alternatives in terms of more value for money, lower maintenance cost and having better safety features. (OPS)
